Belize's Job Market: A Paradise For Job Seekers?

Belize is a small country with a small economy and limited jobs for foreigners. The country's economy is growing slowly but steadily, with an unemployment rate of 11% and a low minimum wage of $3.30/hour. While it is not impossible for foreigners to find work in Belize, it is challenging due to the priority given to employing Belizeans. The largest economic sectors, including agriculture, fishing, retail, and tourism, primarily employ locals. However, there may be opportunities for foreigners with specialised skills or those willing to start their own businesses.

Belize's job market for foreigners

Belize has a population of around 330,000, and 90% of businesses are small or micro-businesses, making it a good place for an overseas venture. Expats run all types of businesses in Belize, from tourism-related businesses like restaurants, bars, and B&Bs to yoga studios, health spas, hair salons, and organic farms.

However, it is not easy for foreigners to get a job in Belize. Local unemployment is relatively high, ranging from 14 to 30%, and Belizean jobs are prioritized for Belizean citizens and residents. To legally work in Belize, foreigners need a work permit, and self-employment permits are the easiest to obtain.

Work Permits

Belize has regulations in place to protect the job market for locals. The government makes efforts to keep Belizeans working, and if a job can be done by a Belizean, a foreigner will not be able to apply for it. Foreigners are encouraged to work in Belize, but the goal is to fill specialist roles or attract new businesses that will create more jobs for locals.

There are two types of applications for a Belize work permit:

• Permission to Employ a Foreign Person: This application is filled out by the potential employer or the job seeker. It requires that the foreign citizen has legal residency in Belize for a minimum of six months. Once approved, the company will own the work permit, and the person can only work for that company.
• Temporary Self-Employment: This application is for foreigners wanting to invest in Belize. Applicants must be in Belize legally with the proper documentation (visa, permits, etc.) and provide a reference letter from the organization overseeing the work category.

Each type of work permit has associated fees, which can be found on the Belize Immigration and Nationality Department website.

Volunteering and Ecological Work

Volunteering is a good way for foreigners to gain experience and make contacts in Belize. Teaching English is one option, as most Belizeans grow up speaking Kriol and only begin formal English speaking when they start school. Volunteering as a teacher does not require formal qualifications or experience, and it can lead to paid employment opportunities. However, many schools in Belize are church-funded and may require teachers to be practicing Christians.

Belize also has a diverse range of biodiversity, and volunteering in ecological conservation is another way to gain experience and see the country. For example, volunteers can work with the Belize Manatee Conservation to help manatees damaged by fishing boats.

Remote Work

If you have a job that allows you to work remotely, telecommuting from Belize is an option. Income earned outside of Belize is not taxed, and you can get paid in your native currency while enjoying the island life. The quality of the internet in Belize has improved, especially in urban areas, but it is still worth checking the internet quality and preparing for occasional power outages.

Starting a Business in Belize

Starting a business in Belize is another option for foreigners looking to live and work in the country. The Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE) helps international and local investors establish and develop businesses in Belize, and the government offers incentives to entrepreneurs, such as exemptions from import and export duties and various taxes. To qualify for these incentives, you must demonstrate how your business activities will benefit Belize economically.

Job Search Engines and Resources

• Career Jet
• Glassdoor
• GoAbroad
• Belize.com
• Go Abroad
• LinkedIn
• BelizeJobs

Work permits

To work in Belize, you must obtain a work permit. This is unless you are a permanent resident, in which case you can be employed just like any natural-born Belizean.

There are two types of work permit applications:

• Application for permission to employ a foreigner: Any foreign citizen who wishes to work in Belize must be a legal resident (have resided in Belize for at least six months). They must be in the country legally, with proper visas and/or permits issued by the Immigration Department. The prospective employer must submit the application for the foreign worker, along with three passport photos, $20 in stamps, a valid passport, and proof that the individual is qualified for the job. The employer must also prove that they have exhausted all efforts to employ a Belizean citizen. This includes providing proof that the vacant position was advertised locally for at least three weeks and that no suitable applicants were found.
• Application for Temporary Self-Employment: This category applies to foreign investors, among others. All applicants must be in the country legally, with proper visas and/or permits issued by the Immigration Department. They must provide proof of reasonably sufficient funds for their proposed venture (e.g. a local bank statement of account). Applicants must also obtain a reference from the relevant Ministry or Local Organisation concerned with the category of work involved. In such cases, the six-month residency requirement is waived, and it is assumed that the venture will lead to the creation of employment for Belizean citizens in the future.

The work permit application must be submitted to the Labour Department and requires the following:

• Application form
• Passport copies (including all blank pages)
• Eight passport photographs
• Police record from the last place of residence and from Belize
• Recommendation from the Village Council/Town Board where the business will be located
• Recommendation from the Belize Tourism Board or Relative Agency if the business is tourism-oriented
• Belize Local Corporation Documents
• Information regarding the local bank account for the Local Corporation
• A Belize Trade License, depending on where the business will be located. The business must have a physical location to be inspected for trade license approval.
• New Local Companies must submit a Business Plan to be vetted by the Ministry of Economic Development/BELTRAIDE before submitting the application to the Labour Department.
• Certificates, diplomas, credentials, etc. of the applicant
• Proof of funding for the business

The work permit is valid for one year and is not renewable. Applicants must apply every year if required. After receiving a second Work Permit, applicants are entitled to apply for Permanent Residence.

The work permit process takes approximately 2-3 months, and additional documents may be requested by the Labour Department depending on the nature of the business. Once the application is approved, a fee of US$1,000.00 must be paid to the Government at the Immigration Department. The business will then be registered at the Income Tax Department and obtain its Trade Identification Number. Applicants will also be required to apply for their Social Security Card, which is only valid for one year.

Networking and job hunting

Networking is key to finding a job in Belize. The country operates almost entirely by word of mouth, so it's important to get out and meet people. Join Facebook groups, reach out to other expats and any Belizean friends, and consider joining local groups such as a gym or Crossfit class.

When networking, focus on meeting people who are doing things you want to do or are succeeding in business. Be helpful, and look for opportunities to volunteer.

It's also important to have a special skill that sets you apart from the local workforce. Technical medical, mechanical, or engineering skills may be useful, as well as managerial experience.

When applying for jobs, be flexible and open to opportunities that may not be in your immediate field of expertise. For example, if you have experience in human resources, you might consider a job in bar or restaurant management, property management, or working with an NGO.

Online job hunting is less common in Belize, but it's still worth updating your CV according to local standards and checking sites like LinkedIn for job postings.

Finally, remember that as a foreigner, it will be difficult to get a job in Belize. The local unemployment rate is high, and businesses must prove that they couldn't find a qualified Belizean for the job before hiring a foreigner. You may also need a work permit, which is much easier to get if you're investing in the country and hiring local employees.

Telecommuting

However, the quality of the internet in Belize is a significant consideration. While it has been improving, especially in urban areas, it is worth checking the internet quality in your desired area before committing to living there. A home in the countryside might be out of the question if you require a high bandwidth. Occasional power outages are also something to be prepared for.

If you are considering telecommuting, it is recommended to approach your current employer about the possibility first. If they are supportive, then you will have an easy life in Belize. If not, it is time to start looking for another job.

There are numerous websites that list internet-based jobs, such as FlexJobs.com and Hubstaff. It is recommended to get set up with a new job before you make the move, as finding new work from Belize is much harder.

Some quick tips for dealing with internet issues in Belize include:

• Using BTL internet, despite it being expensive, as it is the fastest option.
• Buying the fastest connection you can afford, with a minimum of 2Mbps.
• Getting backup service from SMART, which will cost an additional $90 BZD every three months.
• Signing up for a VPS server to use as a backup workstation.

Overall, while telecommuting from Belize is possible, it is important to be aware of the potential challenges and plan accordingly.

Volunteering and ecological work

Volunteering in Belize is a great way to explore the country while contributing to its ecological conservation. The country offers a unique mix of Central American jungles and Caribbean beaches, with a fragile ecosystem that needs protection.

Marine Conservation

Marine conservation is a key focus area for volunteers in Belize, with the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef globally, being a popular site for ecological projects. Volunteers can help protect endangered marine species like dolphins, manatees, and whale sharks, while also contributing to reef conservation and biodiversity identification dives.

One such opportunity is the Marine Conservation project by International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), which is based on a private island off the coast of Placencia in Southern Belize. Volunteers can scuba dive and collect data on marine life, with programs starting every Monday and lasting from one to eight weeks. The program includes accommodation, meals, orientation, and 24/7 support, with fees starting at $1050 for one week.

Agroforestry and Sustainable Farming

For those who prefer to stay on land, agroforestry and sustainable farming projects are also available. Volunteers can learn about sustainable farming practices, particularly regarding cacao, one of the world's most precious crops. This allows volunteers to contribute to ecological conservation while keeping dry and enjoying the magical surroundings of Belize.

Requirements and Recommendations

Most volunteer projects in Belize require participants to be at least 18 years old, with some accepting younger volunteers if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Basic English skills are necessary, and some projects may require a criminal background check, health declaration, or travel consent forms for minors.

It is important to note that volunteering in Belize may come with certain costs, including program fees, travel insurance, and visas. Additionally, volunteers should be prepared for the local culture and etiquette, including conservative dress codes and a generally unaccepting attitude towards homosexuality.

Job Opportunities in Ecological Work

While volunteering provides an excellent avenue for contributing to ecological conservation, there are also job opportunities in this sector. With the right technical skills and qualifications in fields like marine biology, ecology, or conservation, it may be possible to find employment with local organizations or businesses focused on environmental protection. However, as with any job in Belize, competition with local Belizeans for these positions can be fierce, and wages may be significantly lower than in developed countries.

In conclusion, volunteering and ecological work in Belize offer a range of opportunities to contribute to the country's natural beauty and unique ecosystem. Whether through marine conservation, agroforestry, or other environmental initiatives, volunteers can make a meaningful impact while immersing themselves in the local community and culture.

Frequently asked questions